Occupational Therapy

Language-based learning disabilities often have associated or co-occurring conditions that further impact the learning process (Deponio, 2004), with a number of studies showing significant co-occurrences with dyslexia:

35% of those with ADHD have dyslexia (Handler et al., 2011)

Over 50% of those with dyslexia have a developmental coordination disorder (Kaplan et al., 1998)

Over 20% of those with learning disabilities have sensory processing difficulties (Green et al., 2003)

Occupational Therapy at Cambridge School

The Occupational Therapy Department at Cambridge School is available for students who require occupational therapy interventions to reach their full potential. Diagnostic and intervention services range from specific skill sets to the broader patterns of occupational performance.

Under the direction of Dr. Kathleen DeNault-Ridge, an NBCOT-certified and NJ-licensed occupational therapist, Cambridge offers intervention for students with the following challenges:

We are committed to designing intervention programs that address the unique needs of students — developing practical, adaptable, and sustainable strategies that serve to reduce barriers to learning and promote independent participation in learning. Treatment methods and protocols include:

Play-based sensory integration therapy

Kawar vestibular-auditory-ocular protocol (astronaut training)

Core Concepts for Action program

Size Matters handwriting program

Yoga for the Special Child

Developmental Pilates

Therapeutic listening

Alert Program for Self-Regulation

MORE Curriculum

Our occupational therapy services model includes individual intervention for 45-minute sessions, classroom observations (with “push-in” as needed), and on-going teacher consultations. Our onsite facility provides a play-oriented setting for treatment that is furnished with a broad array of equipment, which has been purposefully designed to address the unique occupational behavior needs of each student — regardless of their age or ability level.